[A modified dye dilution method to estimate leakage during regional isolated perfusion of the extremity (author's...

In experiments on dogs (n=13) we tested a procedure for estimating leakage during regional perfusion of the extremity by means of a dye dilution method. After systematic application of 0.5% Evans blue solution (0.1 ml/kg b.w.) we measured the dye concentration in plasma by means of a spectral photometer. The plasma volume (5.5 ml/100 gb.w.) and the disappearance rate of the dye (10%/h) were calculated. In a second procedure the supplying artery and vein of the extremity were proximally clamped and distally connected to an extracorporeal circulation unit consisting of oxygenator, pump, and heat exchanger, and the isolation of the extremity was tested. By simulated of leakage it was possible to detect a little amount of shunt of about 1% escaping from isolated region into the systemic circulation. There were no hints to toxicity when the same dye concentration. There were no hints to toxicity when the same dye concentration was applied. The standardized method was using during 132 cytostatic hyperthermic perfusion in man. In 20 patients we determined shunts of less than 5%, in 104 patients shunts between 5 and 10%, and in eight patients shunts of 10-20% of the extracorporeal circulation. The benefits of the described method are simplicity to carry out and missing of toxicity or radiation.